First Orchestre classique de Montréal Concert of the Season
Montreal, September 8, 2025 — To open its 2025–2026 season, the Orchestre classique de Montréal (OCM) presents Indigenous Mosaic, a concert showcasing First Nations artists: Mohawk violinist Tara-Louise Montour, Cree cellist and composer Cris Derksen, and Innu soprano Élisabeth St-Gelais.
On the program: a concerto commissioned and performed by Montour, an original work by Derksen, and songs by Tomson Highway performed by these exceptional artists. The Juno Award-winning orchestra will also take the spotlight with its rendition of Mozart’s famous “Jupiter” symphony accompanied by visual projections by Oneida artist Alanah Jewell Morningstar.
Infused with the energy of Andrei Feher, conducting his very first concert as OCM’s new music director, the concert offers an immersion in the richness of Indigenous artistic expression. ICI Musique will be recording the performance to extend its reach.
 Tara-Louise Montour |  Cris Derksen |  Élisabeth St-Gelais |  Andrei Feher |
Three soloists at the peak of their art
Tara-Louise Montour (violin)
An internationally acclaimed violinist, Tara-Louise Montour has performed on major stages across Canada and abroad. A member of the OCM for several years, she is known for her sensitive yet powerful performances. She will perform Malcolm Forsyth’s violin concerto, a work she herself commissioned that weaves in Indigenous themes.
“This piece allows us to enter another world, another culture. It is at once dance-like, introspective, and profoundly intense.” —Tara-Louise Montour
Cris Derksen (cello, composition)
Cree cellist and composer Cris Derksen has built a remarkable career, known for her original performances and her ability to blend classical repertoire with contemporary styles. She will present a new work inspired by her roots and her vision of today’s world.
“Through my works, I seek to bring attention to the voice and memory of Indigenous peoples. It is a reminder that our culture is alive and continues to reinvent itself.” —Cris Derksen
Élisabeth St-Gelais (soprano)
Named Radio-Canada’s 2023 “Révélation lyrique” and winner of numerous competitions, Élisabeth St-Gelais is already building a rising career on national and international stages. She rounds out this trio of acclaimed soloists with her rich voice and compelling artistry.
“It is an honour to take part in this concert, which shines a light on the diverse talent of Indigenous artists, just a few days after the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. I look forward to sharing this moment with the audience.” —Élisabeth St-Gelais
The first concert with Andrei Feher as music director
A Quebec conductor of Romanian origin, Andrei Feher embodies a new generation of conductors whose sensitivity and vitality resonate on major international stages. Already praised for his natural rapport with the musicians of the OCM, he is delighted to begin his tenure as music director with this program.
“Starting my mandate with the concert Indigenous Mosaic is a tremendous privilege. This is a meaningful program that celebrates the meeting and diversity of musical voices.” —Andrei Feher
Useful information
Indigenous Mosaic
Sunday, October 5 – 3 p.m.
Maison symphonique de Montréal
1600 Rue Saint-Urbain
Repertoire
Derksen, Cris – Spider Being (Quebec premiere)
Highway, Tomson – Four songs from the musical The Post Mistress (arr. F. Vallières)
Forsyth, Malcolm – Trickster Coyote, Lighting Elk violin concerto (arr. F. Vallières)
Mozart, W. A. – Symphony No. 41 in C Major “Jupiter,” KV 551
Duration: approximately 125 minutes, with intermission
Tickets: $30 – $79.50 (taxes and fees included)
Available at orchestre.ca
About the OCM
Winner of a 2024 Juno Award, the Orchestre classique de Montréal (formerly the McGill Chamber Orchestra) was founded in 1939 by Alexander and Lotte Brott. Since then, it has become one of Canada’s most established chamber ensembles, with numerous tours, recordings, and prestigious collaborations to its credit. Fulfilling its mission of celebrating diversity and inclusion, the OCM collaborates with numerous diverse communities and works to make classical music accessible to all. This season is presented by BMO Financial Group.